The Use of Green Tea in the Treatment of Symptomatic Uterine Fibroids

Abstract

Background: Green tea is a natural product, commonly used by women for multiple purposes. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), the major catechin in green tea, exhibits several useful biological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and antioxidant effects. A study conducted by the US Department of Agriculture reported that green tea has potent anticancer effects against a wide range of human cancer cells. Green tea's polyphenols are considered responsible for these positive effects, and most notably EGCG has been shown to inhibit key pathways of tumor growth. Objective: Aim of the work was to study the effects of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), an extract of green tea on human leiomyoma and quality of life in women with symptomatic uterine fibroids. Patients and methods: A Prospective, sealed envelopes, randomized control trial was conducted including 75 reproductive-age women with symptomatic uterine fibroids (UF) were recruited for this study. All subjects had at least one fibroid lesion ≥ 2 cm³, as confirmed by transvaginal ultrasonography. The subjects had been randomized by SNOSE (Sequentially Numbered Opaque Sealed Envelopes); to oral daily treatment with either 900 mg of green tea extract or only symptomatic treatment for 4 months. The duration of study was about 3 years